PhD in Corporate Strategy and Governance of Contraband Tobacco in Europe Aston University in United Kingdom

Project Overview: Aston University is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on the political economy of contraband tobacco in Europe, with a special emphasis on corporate strategy, EU excise governance, and regulatory asymmetries. The project investigates how transnational tobacco companies exploit cross-border tax differentials, the interplay between EU and national regulatory systems, and how enforcement cultures influence the circulation of legally manufactured but illicitly diverted tobacco products.

Research Focus: The PhD will examine upstream governance structures, institutions, and legal frameworks that enable contraband tobacco flows. Key research areas include corporate production and distribution strategies, EU excise directives and their national implementation (with a focus on Luxembourg, France, and the UK), enforcement coordination, and the interaction between formal legal frameworks and informal governance cultures. The methodology combines documentary analysis, policy and legal research, and elite interviews with regulators, customs officials, and European Commission actors.

Candidate Profile: Applicants from social sciences, humanities, and law backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Relevant fields include sociology, criminology, political science, public policy, European studies, socio-legal studies, and regulatory governance. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background, interest in regulation and illicit markets, experience with qualitative methods, and the ability to travel independently in Europe. A good standard of French is highly desirable; knowledge of German and/or Dutch/Flemish is advantageous but not required. Candidates willing to develop language skills during the PhD are welcome.

Supervision and Environment: The supervisory team, led by Dr Frances Thirlway and Dr P Bajon, brings expertise in illicit markets, health inequalities, corporate political economy, European public law, and EU institutional history. The research environment offers strong links to UK and European regulatory stakeholders and a supportive academic community.

Funding: The position covers all tuition fees and provides an annual stipend. Candidates are responsible for relocation and campus visit costs. International students must ensure they can meet visa, travel, and NHS Surcharge requirements.

Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must have (or expect to achieve) a First or Upper Second Class Honours undergraduate degree and a Masters degree with Merit or Distinction in a relevant subject. Overseas qualifications are considered if equivalent. Evidence of English language proficiency is required if applicable. Experience with qualitative research, policy analysis, and documentary research is desirable. Applicants must be willing to travel to Brussels and Luxembourg and demonstrate strong analytical, communication, and ethical research skills.

Application Process: Submit a complete application including transcripts, certificates, research statement, personal statement, CV, and two academic references. Evidence of English language proficiency and a copy of your passport are also required. Applications missing documents will not be considered. Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams.

Contact: For project enquiries, contact Dr Frances Thirlway at [email protected]. For application process queries, contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at [email protected].

Location: The position is based at Aston Campus, Birmingham, UK. Regular campus visits are expected.